Leigh Wood vs Josh Warrington 2: Leigh Wood easily outpoints Josh Warrington in grudge rematch
BBC World
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Leigh Wood secured a dominant victory over Josh Warrington in their highly anticipated rematch at Nottingham's Motorpoint Arena, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 119-109, 119-109, and 117-111. The fight marked another chapter in the bitter rivalry between the two featherweight boxers, with Wood dictating the pace throughout the 12-round contest. Warrington, who appeared frustrated and struggled to land effective blows, hinted at retirement following his fifth loss in 38 professional bouts. He expressed exhaustion with the demands of the sport and questioned whether he could continue given his age and family responsibilities.
The rematch was a stark contrast to their first meeting in Sheffield, where Wood delivered a decisive punch in the seventh round. This time around, Wood showcased patience and control, using his experience to outmaneuver Warrington. The atmosphere at the sold-out arena was electric, with fans rooting for both fighters as they entered to club anthems—Warrington to Leeds United's "Marching On Together" and Wood to Nottingham Forest's "Mull of Kintyre." Despite the charged environment, Wood remained composed, landing crisp combinations while Warrington struggled to find his rhythm.
Both fighters have faced challenges since their first encounter, including losses to Anthony Cacace. This fight felt like a last opportunity for both men to prove their worth on the global stage. While Warrington appeared more worn down, Wood hinted at retirement himself, emphasizing the toll of balancing boxing with family life. The outcome underscored Wood's resilience and cemented his legacy as a fan favorite in Nottingham. Meanwhile, Warrington's post-fight comments suggested he may step away from the sport, leaving fans to ponder the end of an era for two of British boxing's most enduring figures.
This grudge rematch transcended boxing, offering insight into the emotional and physical toll of a career in combat sports. For readers interested in the world of boxing, the article highlights the personal struggles and triumphs of elite athletes navigating their peak years. The fight also serves as a reminder of the intense rivalries that drive the sport, even as
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/22/2026